Due to hurricane damage, the Havelock location is closed until further notice. Havelock therapists Hannah Zhang, Sarah Hall and Judy Hickes are available to see patients at the New Bern location. Please call the New Bern location at (252) 636-9800 to discuss your care.

Three Simple Exercises for Effective Aquatic Therapy

Aquatic therapy has several benefits for use during a course of physical rehabilitation treatment. Water exercises can be performed by patients who may not be able to support their full body weight on dry land. The natural resistance of water can help speed the rehabilitation process by promoting the strengthening of muscle. The buoyancy effect of water helps reduce pain in aching muscles and joints. Because of these numerous advantages to aquatic therapy, Peak Performance Sports and Physical Therapy shows three effective exercises for physical rehabilitation treatment in the water.

Water walking or jogging

For water walking to be most effective, water height should be between your waist and chest. Begin the series of exercises by:

Taking a series of 20 steps forward

Go in reverse by taking 20 steps backward.

Then finish by jogging in place for 30 seconds

The resistance of the water may make the steps more difficult, but the hydrostatic pressure of the water keeps you upright and relieves pressure on the joints. Increase your speed to get a more difficult workout exercise.

Deep-water bicycle

As the name implies, this aquatic therapy exercise is performed in the deeper end of the pool. Loop enough pool noodles behind your back to support your body weight. Then simply move your legs as if you were riding a bicycle in three to five-minute intervals.

Pool planks

Planks are a great series of exercises to increase core strength and can be easily modified for use in the pool while still receiving the benefits. Lean forward into a plank position while holding on to a pool noodle. Keep your feet on the floor and your elbow straight as the pool noodle is forced under the water. Try maintaining a straight body position to engage and strengthen the core. Hold for 15 to 60-second intervals depending on your core strength.

Aquatic therapy with Peak Performance Sports and Physical Therapy

The ultimate goal of aquatic therapy exercises is to eventually get patients to be able to return to their daily activities on dry land. The physical therapists of Peak Performance Sports and Physical Therapy can help create a personalized aquatic therapy treatment program that can help you regain your quality of life. Contact us today to set up your initial consultation.